SAO PAULO – Bus drivers are on strike for higher wages just as the northeastern city of Natal hosts its first World Cup match between Mexico and Cameroon.

The city government says it's arranged alternative means for fans to get to the Arena das Dunas stadium before the game starts start at noon EDT (1600 GMT).

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Elequicina Santos heads the city's Urban Mobility Department. She tells the G1 Internet news portal that school buses and vans will transport spectators to the stadium and shuttles will run from malls and supermarkets to the stadium.

The strike that started Thursday may not be the only challenge for fans. A drenching rain was falling on the stadium, and television images showed water pooling in places beyond the goal posts.